Artists to investigate while you wait for Ciara
If you can’t wait for Ciara’s new album Basic Instinct to drop, and you’ve already spun out all her other ones, we’ve got the list for you. These artists all rock just like Ciara, while bringing their own unique feel to the music.
- Keri Hilson: Hilson’s actually written hits for Ciara, along with Britney Spears, Usher, and Ludacris. It’s no surprise that her 2009 debut In a Perfect World has the same infectious energy, backed up by futuristic electro beats. The single for her new album, featuring Lil Kim, is due in August.
- Kelly Rowland: Rowland’s group Destiny’s Child was a major inspiration for Ciara. While Kelly hasn’t hit the same solo popularity as Beyonce, her two albums, Simply Deep and Ms. Kelly, offer something out of the ordinary. Simply Deep is a more pop-rock-oriented record, while Ms. Kelly sounds more urban and personal. Her 3rd self-titled album will feature a dance flavor and is set to be released this fall.
- Teairra Mari: This young star has already experienced the dark side of the music industry, being dropped from her music label before her graduation after lackluster sales of her debut. However, that album, Roc-a-Fella Presents: Teairra Mari, features the hit “Make Her Feel Good” and another winner, “No Daddy”. There’s a lot to like on the rest of the album, too, so it’s a good thing Mari’s bounced back and is releasing her second album, At That Point, soon on the Fo’Reel Entertainment label.
- Electrik Red: Following in the same R&B girl-group sound that first inspired Ciara, this group is also produced by Ciara’s collaborator, The-Dream. Their 2009 album How to Be a Lady: Volume 1, has gotten high reviews for its blend of electro and R&B. Check it out while waiting for the second volume to be released later this year.